Communities in Ngariam and Omodoi sub-counties in Katakwi District are calling on district authorities to urgently repair the road connecting the two areas, saying its poor condition is making movement difficult and putting lives at risk.

Residents say the road, particularly the section around Otur Swamp, which borders Ngariam and Omodoi sub-counties, has become a hotspot for accidents and deaths due to its poor terrain.

They say two brothers recently lost their lives in an accident at the same location, raising fears that more people could die if urgent action is not taken, especially with the ongoing rainy season.

The residents say the poor road condition is also affecting access to markets, health facilities and other essential services.

They are therefore calling on their leaders to intervene and have the road repaired to improve connectivity and movement of people and goods.

Meanwhile, Lazaro Okori, the LCII Chairperson of Adugulu Parish in Omodoi Sub-county, warns that continued rains could worsen the situation around Otur Swamp and expose road users to more accidents and deaths.

However, Katakwi District LCV Chairperson Geoffrey Omolo has asked residents to remain calm, saying the road is already included in the district’s budget.

Omolo says the government has also surveyed the road and is committed to improving it using a climate-smart approach to make it more resilient to heavy rains.